Better, easier, safer services to be achieved through public data sharing reform

Media release

The Hon Stuart Robert MP, Minister for the National Disability Insurance Scheme, Minister for Government Services

Author:

Minister the Hon Stuart Robert MP

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Posted:

Tuesday, 03 September 2019

Reading time:

3 minutes

Minister for Government Services, Stuart Robert, today announced a major milestone in the Morrison Government’s commitment to improve government service delivery. A discussion paper outlining proposed landmark public data sharing reforms has been released with the aim of building the foundations for a secure, connected and seamless experience of government services.

Minister Robert said the reforms will enshrine stronger safeguards in legislation to enable the modernisation of the government’s public data capability and set a clear, consistent and transparent approach to public data sharing.

‘Australians expect government services to be simple, seamless, and fast —just like their everyday experience of shopping and banking. These proposed reforms will establish stronger safeguards and enable Government to use data more effectively and securely to deliver services in a way that meets the expectations of the Australian public.’ Minister Robert said.

‘The sharing of public sector data has incredible potential at the individual level – reducing the friction and duplication of tasks that many Australians experience when accessing government services. It is equally beneficial at the national level, by delivering new insights that inform research and government policies on complex challenges in health, education and the economy.

‘Currently, there is a labyrinth of over 500 separate privacy and secrecy provisions enacted over a century hindering our ability to share data to deliver the service Australians deserve. These reforms will ensure we keep pace with international standards and best practice when it comes to government service delivery.

‘However, the use of data must be done safely, for the right purpose and by the right people, with privacy and security at the very core. We are committed to getting this right so we’ve sought the views of users and stakeholders, including peak bodies, privacy experts, businesses and research institutions to help shape the policies outlined in this Discussion Paper. I encourage everyone to have their say to help refine the new legislative framework so we can make the most of this important national asset to benefit all Australians.’

The Discussion Paper is open for public submissions from 3 September to 15 October 2019. For more information, visit www.datacommissioner.gov.au.